When your car starts making clunking noises over bumps or feels sloppy in the turns, often the culprit isn’t the strut itself, but the worn-out mount holding it all together. I’ve spent countless hours in the garage replacing these components, and I know firsthand that choosing the right replacement significantly impacts noise, vibration, and handling. We’ve compiled a comparison of options to help you determine the best strut mount brand for reliable steering and suspension performance, focusing on components that truly deliver OE quality.
Contents
- KYB SM5640 – Mount Kit
- A62062 Engine Torque Strut Mount Compatible with Fits 2010-2017 Camry 2.5L Replace OE 123630V070 EM9588 9588 1pes
- DEA Products DEA A7239 Front Right Engine Torque Strut Mount
- KYB SM5403 – Strut Mount Kit , Black
- Ojtrtdr 10mm Ball Stud Bracket, Gas strut mounting Brackets,Ball Stud Mounting Brackets for Lift Supports Shocks Spring Prop, Gas strut Mount, Lifting Bracket, Set of 4, Black
- Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Component
- Final Verdict on the Best Strut Mount Brand
- Best Strut Mount Brand FAQ
- Why do I need to replace my strut mount, and what are the signs of failure?
- What is the difference between a suspension strut mount and an engine torque strut mount?
- How long does a quality strut mount typically last?
- Can I just replace the strut mount bearing instead of the entire kit?
- Are original equipment (OE) strut mounts always the best choice?
- Does a bad strut mount affect my steering alignment?
KYB SM5640 – Mount Kit
The KYB SM5640 is often cited as the gold standard when discussing top-tier replacement suspension components. This mount kit is designed to optimize your suspension performance by providing the same exacting standards as Original Equipment (OE). If you’re looking to restore your vehicle’s factory feel and eliminate common ride issues like road noise and poor alignment, this kit is an excellent choice. Its superior rubber formulation is key to dampening vibration and harshness (NVH), making your drive smoother and quieter.
Key features that stand out:
- Original Equipment Quality: Designed to match or exceed OE specifications for specific applications.
- Noise Reduction: Superior quality rubber formulation dramatically reduces noise, vibration, and harshness.
- Steering Retention: Includes high-quality mount bearings that assist in smoother steering and help maintain front-end alignment after installation.
- Complete Hardware: Features matched grade studs and nuts for straightforward, secure installation.
Pros:
– Restores original vehicle handling characteristics.
– Exceptional durability and longevity.
– Excellent at suppressing road noise.
Cons:
– Higher price point than generic alternatives.
Best for: Drivers seeking premium, OE-level restoration and superior NVH isolation.
Expert Opinion: KYB consistently delivers reliable, high-quality suspension components. For a complete strut mount assembly that offers longevity and improved steering feedback, the SM5640 is a trustworthy option for demanding drivers.
A62062 Engine Torque Strut Mount Compatible with Fits 2010-2017 Camry 2.5L Replace OE 123630V070 EM9588 9588 1pes
While many people search for the best strut mount brand for suspension, it’s important to recognize that “strut mount” is also commonly used to describe engine torque mounts. This A62062 mount is specifically for the engine and transmission, designed for specific Toyota Camry models. Engine mounts are crucial for stabilizing the engine during acceleration and idling, absorbing the heavy torque forces. This product guarantees high quality, aiming to replace or even surpass the durability of the original equipment (OE) mount.
Key features that stand out:
- Vehicle Specificity: Guaranteed compatibility for 2010–2017 Camry models with the 2.5L engine.
- High-Quality Construction: Manufacturer uses high-grade raw materials, designed and tested in advanced laboratory settings.
- Direct OE Replacement: Offers exact fitment and performance parity with OE part numbers (e.g., 123630V070).
- Warranty: Comes with a full one-year warranty for peace of mind.
Pros:
– Excellent quality replacement for a known failure point in specific Camry models.
– Direct-fit application simplifies installation.
– Strong warranty backing.
Cons:
– Only applicable to a narrow range of specific vehicles.
Best for: Owners of 2010–2017 Toyota Camry 2.5L models needing a reliable engine torque strut mount replacement.
Expert Opinion: For engine stability, precise torque strut mounts are non-negotiable. If your vehicle matches the specified fitment, this product offers the confidence of OE replacement quality without the dealership cost.
DEA Products DEA A7239 Front Right Engine Torque Strut Mount
DEA Products has been a trusted name in the aftermarket industry for manufacturing durable engine and transmission mounts for over 30 years. Like the previous product, the A7239 is an engine mount, not a suspension component. This specific unit is designed for the front right engine position. DEA emphasizes using the highest quality raw materials and rigorously tests every product to ensure it meets or exceeds the original manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring superior vibration control for your drivetrain.
Key features that stand out:
- Industry Experience: Manufactured by a company with over three decades of experience in drivetrain mounting solutions.
- Quality Assurance: Products are rigorously tested to ensure they meet or exceed original mount specifications.
- Premium Materials: Constructed using high-quality raw materials for superior longevity and durability under engine strain.
- Vibration Control: Specifically engineered to absorb and dampen engine vibration transferred into the chassis.
Pros:
– Long-standing, trusted manufacturer reputation.
– High-quality materials promise extended service life.
– Effective at isolating engine movement and noise.
Cons:
– Fitment must be checked carefully as it is application-specific.
Best for: Mechanics and DIYers looking for a dependable, quality-focused engine mount replacement from a reputable brand.
Expert Opinion: When replacing motor mounts, durability is paramount. DEA’s long history and commitment to meeting OE standards make this a solid choice for maintaining powertrain stability and reducing cabin vibrations.
KYB SM5403 – Strut Mount Kit , Black
Another strong contender from KYB, the SM5403 Strut Mount Kit offers the same high standards of performance and quality as its counterpart, focusing on optimizing suspension operation. This specific kit is often designed for different vehicle applications but retains KYB’s core commitment to OE replacement excellence. It is built with enhanced rubber components to resist wear from environmental factors and constant load cycles, contributing significantly to improved steering response and front-end stability.
Key features that stand out:
- Optimized Performance: Designed specifically to optimize suspension function and durability for its intended application.
- NVH Reduction: Superior rubber isolates shock impacts and road noise from the chassis.
- Alignment Retention: High-quality mount bearings ensure smooth steering operation and help preserve critical steering alignment angles.
- Hardware Inclusion: Comes complete with matched grade studs and nuts for an easy, professional installation.
Pros:
– Exceptional quality and durability for suspension applications.
– Key component for restoring vehicle handling.
– Helps prevent premature tire wear by maintaining alignment.
Cons:
– Finding the exact kit number (SM5403) for your car may require careful application research.
Best for: Drivers and technicians demanding high performance and longevity in suspension components, prioritizing steering precision.
Expert Opinion: KYB’s focus on providing components that are engineered for the specific vehicle ensures true performance restoration. This is consistently one of the best strut mount brand options for general suspension repair.
Ojtrtdr 10mm Ball Stud Bracket, Gas strut mounting Brackets,Ball Stud Mounting Brackets for Lift Supports Shocks Spring Prop, Gas strut Mount, Lifting Bracket, Set of 4, Black
This product is fundamentally different from the suspension and engine mounts reviewed above. The Ojtrtdr 10mm Ball Stud Brackets are accessory mounting hardware designed specifically for installing gas springs, lift supports, or shocks—common in hatches, hoods, or DIY projects. Made from galvanized steel, these brackets offer long-lasting reliability and secure support for dynamic applications, ensuring the smooth operation of your lift supports.
Key features that stand out:
- Durable Construction: Made of galvanized steel for superior resistance to corrosion and long-term reliability.
- Easy Installation: Comes in a set of four, including flat brackets for side frames and “L” brackets for door/lid applications.
- Secure Connection: Provides a strong, secure mounting point (10mm ball stud) necessary for the safe function of gas springs.
- Complete Kit: Includes 16 screws, providing everything needed for immediate installation.
Pros:
– Extremely versatile for automotive and non-automotive DIY projects.
– Corrosion-resistant galvanized finish.
– Comprehensive package with all necessary hardware included.
Cons:
– Not a replacement for a vehicle’s main suspension or engine strut mount.
Best for: DIY enthusiasts, builders, and professionals needing reliable hardware for installing lift supports or gas springs on custom or factory applications.
Expert Opinion: While not a traditional strut mount, this hardware is essential for anyone dealing with gas strut replacement or customization. Its galvanized steel build ensures that the mounting points won’t fail prematurely.
Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Component
Choosing the best strut mount brand depends heavily on what you’re trying to replace. We reviewed three very distinct categories:
For Suspension Performance (Top Hat): The KYB kits (SM5640 and SM5403) are the clear winners. KYB is specialized in suspension and delivers components that effectively reduce NVH and ensure proper steering alignment. If your car clunks going over speed bumps or your steering feels mushy, you need a KYB-style suspension mount.
For Engine Stability (Torque Mounts): The A62062 and DEA A7239 are excellent options for stabilizing the powertrain. Engine mounts absorb brutal forces and vibration, and these brands prioritize high-quality rubber and testing. Always double-check the exact OE part number if you are replacing an engine mount, as fitment is extremely specific.
For Accessory Hardware (Lift Supports): The Ojtrtdr brackets fill a specialized need for installing gas struts securely. These galvanized steel brackets are robust but must not be confused with the structural support needed for a car’s primary suspension system.
Final Verdict on the Best Strut Mount Brand
If we are strictly discussing the best strut mount brand for improving vehicle ride quality and suspension integrity, KYB stands out as the uncontested industry leader. Their commitment to OE-level quality components ensures reduced noise, improved handling, and long-term reliability for your vehicle’s structural suspension points.
However, for those dealing with powertrain vibration and seeking reliable engine stabilization, the DEA Products and A62062 mounts provide application-specific, high-durability solutions that meet stringent OE specifications, making them the superior choice for engine mounting needs.
Best Strut Mount Brand FAQ
Why do I need to replace my strut mount, and what are the signs of failure?
Strut mounts should typically be replaced whenever you replace the strut or shock absorber, as they wear out simultaneously. Signs of failure include loud “clunking” or rattling noises coming from the suspension, especially over bumps or potholes. You might also notice sloppy steering response or issues keeping your front end aligned, leading to premature tire wear.
What is the difference between a suspension strut mount and an engine torque strut mount?
A suspension strut mount (or “top hat”) connects the top of the shock/strut assembly to the vehicle’s body, absorbing road impacts and facilitating steering rotation. An engine torque strut mount (or motor mount) connects the engine/transmission to the chassis. Its primary job is to absorb engine vibration, control engine movement under acceleration, and reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) in the cabin.
How long does a quality strut mount typically last?
The lifespan of a mount depends heavily on driving conditions, but a quality mount from the best strut mount brand, like KYB, can often last 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Driving on rough roads or consistently hitting potholes can significantly shorten this lifespan due to constant stress on the rubber and bearing components.
Can I just replace the strut mount bearing instead of the entire kit?
While technically possible on some older models, it is generally advised to replace the entire mount kit, which includes the rubber insulator and the bearing. The rubber part of the mount degrades over time, hardening and cracking, which leads to noise and vibration. Replacing the whole assembly ensures full restoration of the strut performance and NVH dampening.
Are original equipment (OE) strut mounts always the best choice?
OE strut mounts are excellent because they guarantee fitment and match the factory specifications for your car. However, aftermarket brands like KYB often specialize and sometimes provide components with superior rubber compounds or slight design improvements that surpass the original OE part in terms of durability or vibration isolation, often at a lower cost.
Does a bad strut mount affect my steering alignment?
Yes, absolutely. A worn strut mount, particularly one with a degraded or seized bearing, can prevent the strut from turning properly. More critically, the rubber insulator in the mount keeps the suspension geometry precise. When the rubber collapses, the strut position shifts, directly impacting the camber and toe settings, making it difficult or impossible to retain proper steering alignment.
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